During the State of the Union address on 24 February, Texas Representative Al Green made headlines when he interrupted President Donald Trump by brandishing a sign that read “Black People Aren’t Apes.” This action was a direct response to a controversial video previously shared on Trump’s Truth Social account, which depicted former President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama in a racially insensitive manner, superimposing their faces on animated ape bodies.
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Green’s protest occurred as tensions rose in the chamber. The 78-year-old lawmaker used a cane for support as he held up his sign, drawing immediate attention. His demonstration was short-lived, as he was promptly escorted from the House chamber following his disruption.
In an interview with NBC News after his removal, Green expressed his strong stance against racism. “If you tolerate this level of racism, you perpetuate it, and I refuse to tolerate it,” he emphasized. The Texas Democrat conveyed his desire to prevent the normalisation of such behaviour. “There will be no question, this is where I stand,” he asserted, stressing the importance of courage in speaking out against injustice, even if it means standing alone.
The video that prompted Green’s protest featured allegations of voter fraud related to the 2020 election, a long-standing narrative pushed by Trump. The offensive imagery showcased the Obamas’ faces placed on animated characters from the film “The Lion King,” dancing to the tune of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” Initially, Trump’s repost of the video did not include any commentary, which contributed to the backlash it received across various quarters.
Following the uproar, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the controversy but dismissed the reaction as “fake outrage.” She suggested that the media should focus on more pressing issues affecting American citizens rather than dwelling on the video. Meanwhile, the clip was deleted from Trump’s platform amid the growing criticism, including from members of his own party.
In response to questions concerning his decision not to apologise for the video, Trump stood firm. On 6 February, he remarked, “No, I didn’t make a mistake,” demonstrating his intent to adhere to the narrative he has long promoted regarding the election. Trump later claimed that he had not been aware of the offensive content. “If they would have seen it, they probably would have had the sense to take it down,” he stated.
Al Green’s history of vocal protest against Trump is noteworthy. He has previously faced removal from the Capitol during Trump’s State of the Union address in March 2025, when he shouted “No mandate!” as a form of dissent. This earlier interruption led to Green facing censure from the House in a vote that split party lines, with the motion passing 244 to 198.
The incident has reignited discussions on racism within political discourse, especially within the context of a platform that Trump continues to use to relay inflammatory content. As reactions from various communities emerge, it remains evident that this exchange and its surrounding context will weigh heavily on the societal discussions regarding race in America.
The protest by Green and the ensuing controversy surrounding the video are reflective of broader tensions in American politics, where issues of race, representation, and accountability remain ever prevalent. As the situation unfolds, many will be watching how public figures, particularly those in the highest offices, navigate these issues moving forward.